Renovating Planning Guide: A Room-by-Room Playbook for New Homeowners

Because a well-planned reno starts with the right questions.

Renovating your home isn't just about picking tiles and paint colours — it’s about tailoring each space to how you live. From daily routines to future-proofing your layout, every design decision should take into consideration your lifestyle needs and preferences.

This room-by-room renovation planning guide highlights the key questions to ask and considerations to make — from layout flow and storage solutions to function and form — so you can plan each part of your home with intention.

Entryway

The entryway sets the tone for the rest of the home, and good design here can instantly make your space feel more aesthetic, organised, and welcoming.

Key questions to ask when renovating an entryway/foyer:

• How much cabinet space do I need for shoes/storage?
• Do I need a built-in shoe cabinet?
• Do I want concealed or open storage?
• Should I include seating to make wearing or removing shoes easier?
• Do I want a full-height mirror for fit checks before leaving the house?
• Is there enough lighting for both function and ambience?
• If the household shelter and DB box is next to the entrance, do I want to conceal it?
• Do I want a flooring transition from the foyer to the living area?

Depending on your lifestyle, you might also want to allocate space for essentials like an umbrella stand, a nook for keys and mail, or even a full-height mirror for last-minute checks before heading out. The goal is to create a clutter-free drop zone that’s as practical as it is inviting.

For more niche needs, think about features like a built-in bike rack if you cycle often, or a small charging nook for your e-scooter or vacuum dock. With thoughtful planning, even the smallest foyer can punch above its weight in both function and style.

Living Room

The living room is one of the first spaces guests see when they enter your home, as well as the space they typically spend the most time in — making it the ideal spot to infuse your personality and showcase your collection. Whether it’s a wall of curated art, a shelf of travel trinkets, or a display of your prized figurine collection, this space offers a snapshot of who you are and makes for great conversation starters.

Key questions to ask when renovating a living room:

• If the main door is facing the living room directly, do I want to install a partition for privacy?
• Do I want to mount the TV or use a console?
• Will I need built-in storage, a feature wall, or both?
• Should I integrate the living and dining areas into one open plan?
• Is there enough space for entertaining larger groups?
• Where does the natural light hit? (For positioning the TV and sofa)
• Where should the power points go?
• Where should the ceiling fan and AC be installed?
• Should I go for a false ceiling?
• What kind of lighting should I use?

Functionally, the living room is where most of your daily activities take place — from watching TV to entertaining friends or simply winding down. That’s why it’s important to balance style with livability. If you foresee yourself hosting a lot, think about modular sofas or flexible seating arrangements. If you prefer downtime alone or with family, consider creating a cosy nook with ambient lighting and plush textures.

Some homeowners even choose to tweak the layout or combine rooms to maximise communal space. And don’t overlook details like where the power points go, where to put the fan or AC, and how you’ll hide clutter without sacrificing aesthetics.

For smaller homes, there are creative ways to maximise functionality and flow despite the lack of space. The swivel TV above is one such example, allowing the screen to be shared between the living area and a semi-open bedroom.

Dining Area

If this is your first time renovating, it might surprise you how much thought goes into the dining area. It’s not just about picking a table that fits — it’s about figuring out how you’ll actually use the space day to day.

Questions to consider when renovating a dining area:

• How many people do I usually eat with?
• How often do I see myself hosting larger groups?
• Should I get a fixed table, or something extendable or foldable?
• Would built-in seating or a bench help maximise space?
• Do I want the dining table to be part of the kitchen counter or island?
• What kind of lighting set-up do I want? (e.g pendant lamps, spotlights, etc)

For open-plan homes, it's common to have a dining table that flows seamlessly from the kitchen island. This not only looks cohesive, but also saves space — perfect for compact layouts or homes that prioritise sociable, multifunctional areas.

And since the dining zone might double up as your WFH spot, kids’ study table, or even baking station, it’s worth thinking about things like lighting, power point access, and storage for tableware or appliances. Getting these details right early on can make everyday routines a lot smoother later.

Kitchen

Whether you’re a passionate home cook or more of a microwave-meal kind of person, your kitchen layout should support your lifestyle — not frustrate it. For first-time homeowners, this is often the space where design meets reality (and where things can get complicated fast).

Questions to consider when renovating a kitchen:

• Do I prefer an open, semi-open, or enclosed kitchen?
• Will I be doing heavy cooking that requires good ventilation?
• Do I need both wet and dry kitchen zones?
• Do I prefer induction or gas hob?
• Where should appliances like the fridge, oven, and dishwasher go?
• How much countertop space do I need for food prep and small appliances?
• Do I prefer open shelving or cabinets for storage?
• Where do I install the water dispenser?
• How many power outlets do I need and where to place them?
• How much lighting do I need in the kitchen?

One of the first decisions to make is whether you prefer an open, semi-open, or enclosed kitchen. Open kitchens help create a spacious, social setting and are great for smaller homes or households that love entertaining. Semi-open layouts — with sliding glass doors or enclosable counter windows — give you flexibility: you can keep things open when hosting or close it off to contain cooking fumes. Enclosed kitchens offer the most privacy and are ideal for heavy cooking or when you prefer to keep the mess out of sight.

You’ll also want to consider workflow efficiency — a well-planned kitchen follows a “work triangle” between the stove, sink, and fridge. Beyond function, don’t forget about materials: opt for heat- and water-resistant countertop surfaces, and easy-to-clean backsplashes. And if you’re short on space, think vertically — tall cabinets and hidden storage go a long way in keeping clutter out of sight.

If you’re planning to incorporate a kitchen island, ask yourself: will it be used just for meal prep, or will it double up as a dining or social area? These choices will guide decisions around lighting, power outlets, and seating.

Service Yard

Often one of the most overlooked spaces in a home, the service yard plays a vital behind-the-scenes role in your day-to-day life. Typically designated for laundry-related tasks, this area can pack a surprising amount of function — if planned well from the start.

Questions to consider when renovating a service yard:

• Should I keep the service yard separate or integrate it with the kitchen?
• What kind of washer/dryer setup am I going for?
• Will I need space for indoor clothes drying?
• Do I need an extra sink for cleaning and laundry needs?
• How much/what kind of storage do I need for cleaning tools and supplies?
• Do I want to conceal the water heater or leave it exposed?
• Should I build in an ironing board or foldable drying rack?

Depending on your layout and needs, you might choose to keep the service yard as a separate utilitarian zone — or extend your kitchen into it for a more seamless flow. Many homeowners opt to tear down the partition wall and integrate the yard as part of the kitchen, which helps to open up the space and make room for a larger meal prep area or a longer stretch of cabinetry.

Start by deciding whether you’ll be using a front-loading or top-loading washer, and if a dryer or stacked combo unit is part of your setup. From there, plan sufficient space and ventilation — especially if you’re drying clothes indoors. If sunlight is limited, consider installing a mechanical or automated drying rack to maximise vertical space.

Built-ins here should prioritise utility: think tall cabinets for cleaning tools, pull-out ironing boards, and storage for detergent and laundry baskets. If your unit comes with a gas or electric water heater in this area, plan your carpentry to safely conceal it while still allowing access for servicing.

And if space allows, consider more quirky add-ons like an al fresco-style coffee counter or even a pet shower corner.

Study

Unlike the communal areas of your home, the study serves a more intentional purpose — it’s where productivity happens, whether that means tackling WFH meetings or personal passion projects.

And if you’re working with a typical BTO layout, the study often sits right beside the living room — which makes planning the transition between the two spaces especially important for flow, sound, and privacy. A design trend we see often is having a see-through partition for the study to allow more natural light to flow through the home. If privacy is a concern, consider opting for a frosted or fluted glass partition instead.

Questions to consider when renovating a study:

• Do I need a fully enclosed study room or just a designated corner?
• Will I be sharing the study with my partner? (If privacy is needed, will separate study areas be required?)
• Will I be on frequent calls or video meetings (i.e. need good lighting and soundproofing)?
• How much built-in storage do I need for books, files, or devices?
• Do I want this space to double up as a guest room, hobby area, or entertainment room?

For first-time homeowners, it’s easy to overlook small details that can make a big difference — like placing power points near your desk, investing in ergonomic seating, or choosing surface materials that are easy to maintain. If the study will be shared by more than one person, factor in how much desk space and storage each person will need, and whether some kind of partition is needed for extra privacy.

For those tight on space, a compact study nook can also be incorporated into the bedroom — just make sure to zone it well with lighting or carpentry, so your rest and work zones feel distinct.

Alternatively, some homeowners opt to tuck their workspace within the walk-in wardrobe, especially if it’s an area with a window and good natural light.

Bathrooms

The bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in your home, but it's also one of the most frequently used — and renovating it comes with a host of decisions that can quickly add up.

Start by deciding whether you’ll be retaining the existing layout or shifting fixtures around. Reconfiguring the placement of your toilet bowl, sink, or shower may require plumbing rerouting — which can increase both cost and timeline. HDB homeowners will also need to ensure their plans comply with regulations on drain and pipe locations.

Questions to consider when renovating a bathroom:

• Will I be keeping the existing layout or reconfiguring plumbing points?
• Do I prefer a rainshower or a traditional handheld shower head?
• Do I want a bathtub? If so, which kind and how much space will it take?
• Do I want a his-and-hers sink? If so, is it worth the space trade-off?
• Is there enough ventilation to keep the space dry and mould-free?
• What kind of storage do I need — and where should it go?
• What type of tiles and finishes best match my design and maintenance needs?
• Do I prefer instant or storage water heaters?

Beyond the basics, consider your design aspirations and day-to-day habits. Dreaming of a hotel-like retreat? You might want to incorporate a bathtub — whether a built-in tiled version or a freestanding tub.

For couples, a his-and-hers sink setup could help streamline busy mornings. And it doesn’t have to be boring – try themed bathrooms that draw inspiration from Japanese ryokans, Nordic saunas, or classic European interiors – especially if they match existing design themes from the rest of your home.

Practical details matter too. Think about built-in niches, towel storage, vanity drawers, and waterproof materials. If space is tight, wall-mounted fittings and mirrored cabinets can help reduce clutter.

Bedrooms

When it comes to planning out the bedrooms in your new home, comfort and functionality should go hand in hand — especially for the master bedroom, where you’ll likely be spending the most time winding down and recharging.

Start with the essentials: bed size, placement, and how much walking space you’ll need around it. If you’re planning to include a walk-in wardrobe, vanity, or study nook, it’s important to plan your layout early — especially in tighter spaces where every square metre counts.

For storage, built-in wardrobes are a staple, but don’t stop there. Consider how you can incorporate headboard storage or under-bed compartments. Some homeowners also design recessed nooks or vanity tables beside the bed for keeping and storing small items within reach.

Questions to consider when renovating a bedroom:

• Will the master bedroom have space for a walk-in wardrobe, vanity or study nook?
• What kind of wardrobe layout suits my storage habits?
• Do I need additional built-in storage (e.g. under-bed, bay window)?
• Where should power points be placed — especially near the bed or for a wall-mounted TV?
• What kind of lighting do I want? (e.g moodlights, pendant lamps)
• Will common bedrooms be used for guests, hobbies, or future family planning?

Another point to think about: will you be mounting a TV in the master bedroom? If so, you’ll need to plan for power points and cable routing in advance — same goes for outlets near the bed if you rely on night-time charging or sleep tech gadgets.

Common bedrooms can be more versatile — doubling as guest rooms, hobby spaces, or even future kids’ rooms, depending on your household needs.

If you’re using the common bedroom as a guest room, consider installing a Murphy bed like the one above to make the space more flexible in terms of usage.

Walk-in Wardrobe

A dedicated walk-in wardrobe is a highly coveted feature for many new homeowners — and whether it’s tucked behind your master bedroom or designed as a walk-through between spaces, its layout and functionality deserve careful attention.

Questions to consider when renovating a walk-in wardrobe:

• Do I want an open or closed walk-in wardrobe?
• Should the wardrobe be a walk-in or walk-through?
• What balance of hanging, shelving, and drawers suits my needs?
• Do I want to include a vanity or seating area?
• Is there enough lighting and mirror coverage for dressing?
• Are there accessible power points for appliances like a hair dryer or chargers?

Begin by thinking about your day-to-day routine and wardrobe needs. Do you prefer an open-concept walk-in that puts everything within reach, or a closed setup with sliding or swing doors to keep dust out and things visually neat? If your room does not have enough space for a full walk-in wardrobe, think about going for a walk-through configuration instead.

Design-wise, consider task lighting and full-height mirrors — both essential for dressing. You’ll also want to strike a balance between hanging space, drawers, and shelving, with extras like pull-out trays or accessory organisers for easy access. And if you’re including a vanity, don’t forget power points and focused lighting.

For extra comfort, a bench or ottoman can add seating without taking up too much room. And if space is tight, clever planning — like partitioning the room with the wardrobe — can help create the feel of a walk-in without needing an entire extra room.

Balcony

Not all homes come with a balcony — but for those that do, this versatile nook can be more than just a place to dry laundry or grow a few potted plants. With a bit of creativity, your balcony can be transformed into an extension of your indoor lifestyle, whether that means carving out a cosy retreat or adding extra functionality to your home.

Questions to consider when renovating a balcony:

• How do I want to use the balcony (lounging, gardening, dining, etc.)?
• Will I need weatherproof furniture or blinds? (Some condos may require MCST approval for Ziptrak as it affects the building’s facade)
• Should I extend indoor flooring or use outdoor-friendly options?
• Do I need power points or lighting fixtures?
• Do I want to enclose the space partially or fully?

Depending on your needs, the balcony can serve as a mini outdoor lounge, urban garden, dining nook, or even a compact workstation. If you love entertaining, consider built-in bench seating with weather-resistant cushions, paired with a small coffee table or foldable furniture. Homeowners with green thumbs may prefer to dedicate the space to a vertical garden wall, hydroponic setup, or potted plant zone.

Privacy and shelter are key considerations — think about installing zip blinds or sliding glass panels to shield against rain and harsh sun. Flooring is another important detail; opt for decking or slip-resistant tiles to enhance comfort and safety.

If you’re planning to install lighting or power points for fans, a coffee machine, or even a plug-in water feature, be sure to flag this early in the renovation process. And don’t forget the view — framing it well can elevate the entire ambience of your space.

Ready to plan your dream home?

Save this renovation planning guide for future reference — and when you're ready to kickstart your renovation, get matched with trusted interior designers who can bring your ideas to life. The best part? It’s free – just click the button below!